For immediate release:Atlanta – February 26, 2018 – The 2018 Jury of Fellows from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) elevated 152 AIA members to its prestigious College of Fellows, an honor awarded to members who have made significant contributions to the profession.

The 2018 Fellows will be honored at an investiture ceremony at the AIA Conference on Architecture in New York City, NY.

The Fellowship program was developed to elevate those architects who have made a significant contribution to architecture and society and who have achieved a standard of excellence in the profession.Election to fellowship not only recognizes the achievements of architects as individuals but also their significant contribution to architecture and society on a national level.

2018 Fellows

Out of a total AIA membership of over 90,000, approximately three percent are distinguished with the honor of fellowship and honorary fellowship. The elevation to fellowship is conferred on architects with at least ten years of membership in the AIA in one or more of the following nomination categories or objects:

1. Promoted the aesthetic, scientific, and practical efficiency of the profession

2. Advanced the science and art of planning and building by advancing the standards of architectural education, training or practice

3. Coordinated the building industry and the profession of architecture through leadership in the AIA and other related professional organizations

4. Advanced the living standards of people through an improved environment

5. Made the profession of ever-increasing service to society

Included in the list below are the newly elevated members from Georgia, their component affiliation, and summary of their accomplishments.

Melody Harclerode, FAIAAIA Atlanta

Through developing the Discover ARCHITECTURE program, Melody Harclerode inspires students and advocates about the architectural profession. Her dynamic leadership advances the Institute’s involvement in design education and elevates public awareness of architecture. Harclerode has engaged thousands of children and adults about the value of architects and great architectural works with her classroom work, writings, workshops, conferences, and social media partnerships. Her initiatives to promote design education from coast to coast, to organize K-12 champions, and to foster knowledge of architecture using diverse media has expanded strategies for architects to inspire each other, young people and the public.

Robert J. Svedberg, FAIAAIA Atlanta

At tvsdesign, Rob is a principal in the convention center practice, coordinating the activity of an amazing team of architects, designers, programming specialists, sustainability experts and operational researchers who have designed four of the five largest convention centers in North America and three of the most important centers in China. His projects reflect community’s values by bring together people, ideas, commerce and award-winning design. Outside of the office, Rob sits on the City of Atlanta’s SPI-1 Development Review Commission, the Atlanta West Side TAD Advisory Board, ULI TAP Committee and Marietta Street Artery Association’s Land Use Committee.

About The American Institute of ArchitectsFounded in 1857, the American Institute of Architects consistently works to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings, neighborhoods, and communities. Through nearly 300 state and local chapters, the AIA advocates for public policies that promote economic vitality and public wellbeing. Members adhere to a code of ethics and conduct to ensure the highest professional standards. The AIA provides members with tools and resources to assist them in their careers and business as well as engaging civic and government leaders and the public to find solutions to pressing issues facing our communities, institutions, nation, and world. Visit www.aiaga.org.